With predictions of record high heating costs this winter, you may find some ways to increase your home’s energy efficiency just by looking at your windows. The United States Department of Energy says that windows in a typical home can account for 10% to 25% of the heating bill. This number is even higher when there are skylight windows in the home.

Fewer skylight window coverings are installed in fall and winter as temperatures cool. In the summer, the heat can be intense, so homeowners feel more compelled to act. In winter, though, the heat coming in through a skylight during the day is nice to have, but when the sun goes down, any heating benefits are lost. The heat rises and escapes through the uncovered skylight. With fewer hours of daylight, the loss of heat at night is greater than whatever is gained during daylight hours. The end result is a higher heating bill.

Window coverings for skylight windows help to prevent the heat loss at night while still allowing the benefits of free “passive” solar heat during the day. Skylight window coverings can impact heating bills immediately and dramatically. Motorized control can make it even easier to take control.

Source: hirshfields.com

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